Make a meaningful Christmas list

Thursday

Dec 13, 2012 at 6:00 AMDec 13, 2012 at 9:01 AM

Dianne Williamson

OK, time for Santa's elves to get busy.

Dear readers, please take a brief time-out from your holiday gift-buying frenzy and check out this wish list from local charities and organizations that do so much good for others. The beauty of this list? You'll be donating to folks who really need help, and who will appreciate your thoughtfulness much more than the finicky aunt who always smiles politely at your gift while sweetly asking if you saved the receipt.

And your generosity goes directly to your handpicked charity — no professional fundraisers involved. What better way to spend your hard-earned dollars during the holidays?

Two Lutheran Social Services programs in Worcester have requests. The Refugee Resettlement program wants new pillows and new or gently used blankets, sheets, towels, dishes and pots and pans. At Emanuel Village, senior residents would like first-aid kits and emergency preparedness kits that include flashlights and batteries. For the outside they would like benches, raised garden beds and a gazebo. They also welcome those interested in sponsoring a holiday or community meal for the residents. dfitzmaurice@lssne.org or (774) 243-3938, 14 East Worcester St., Suite 300, Worcester, 01604.

The Victim Services Team at Community Healthlink Youth and Family Service could use hats, gloves, mittens, scarves and coats for children and adolescents and $10 gift cards. Contact Michelle Chunis at (508) 421-4473.

The South Worcester Neighborhood Center is looking for Christmas gifts for teenagers 13-16. Gifts or gift cards would be appreciated, in addition to pots and pans. 47 Camp St., Worcester, 01603, (508) 757-8344.